Organisers of Ballymena’s Pride event have said their second parade will be “louder, prouder, stronger” when it returns to the town in the summer.
The 2026 event follows the first ever Mid and East Antrim (MEA) Pride parade in the Co Antrim town last June, which saw hundreds come out to support participants.
The parade was held despite slurry being spread along the route through Ballymena town centre the night before.
Police investigated the incident as a hate crime, and one man has since appeared in court charged with causing material to be deposited on a road, criminal damage and possession of an article with a blade or point.
The route was cleaned ahead of the parade, and organisers said the slurry incident “had the opposite effect” of what was allegedly intended, as crowds and participants enjoyed a “beautiful day”.
Now plans are underway for the second annual Ballymena Pride, scheduled for Saturday June 20, with fundraising taking place.
A GoFundMe page sates the celebration receives no council funding and is a “fully community-led” event.
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“Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure MEA Pride 2026 can be Louder, Prouder, and Stronger – and accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay," the page states.
In a statement, an MEA Pride spokesperson said the inaugural parade “was a proud and positive moment for Ballymena and the borough as a whole, bringing together residents, families, allies and visitors in a spirit of inclusion, respect and cross-community celebration".
“Planning is now underway for Mid and East Antrim Pride 2026, with a continued focus on ensuring the event is inclusive, family-friendly and reflective of the diverse people who call Ballymena and the wider borough home,” they said.
“Organisers are committed to working closely with local stakeholders, traders and community organisations as preparations progress. We are immensely proud that our event remains self funded through independent fundraising efforts, and other external supporters.”
